Kenwood Excelon DNX691HD Manual

The Kenwood Excelon DNX691HD is a premium 6.95-inch multimedia receiver with built-in navigation, HD Radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, dual camera inputs, 13-band EQ, and advanced audio processing. Features include Garmin navigation, Maestro compatibility for vehicle integration, SiriusXM readiness, and high-resolution display. Below are key sections for installation, features, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Navigation Features 8. Audio Settings 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.95-inch capacitive touchscreen, Garmin navigation, Built-in Bluetooth, HD Radio tuner, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Dual USB ports, Rear camera input.

FeatureDescription
Display6.95-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen
NavigationBuilt-in Garmin navigation with lifetime maps
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
HD RadioDigital radio reception with artist/title info
Apple CarPlayiPhone integration for apps and navigation
Android AutoAndroid smartphone integration
Audio Processing13-band EQ, time alignment, crossover
Camera InputsDual camera capability (rear/front)
Maestro CompatibleVehicle integration and steering wheel controls
SiriusXM ReadySatellite radio capability

Installation

Professional installation recommended. Ensure vehicle is parked safely with parking brake engaged.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before beginning installation.
  2. Remove factory radio using proper removal tools.
  3. Connect wiring harness following color-coded wiring diagram.
  4. Connect antenna adapter and GPS antenna.
  5. Mount unit securely in dashboard.
  6. Reconnect battery and test all functions.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation to prevent electrical damage. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup wizard.

  1. Language selection: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
  2. Time/Date: Set current time and date format.
  3. Bluetooth pairing: Pair your smartphone for hands-free operation.
  4. Navigation setup: Accept terms and download map updates if needed.
  5. Audio calibration: Run automatic sound calibration for optimal audio.

CAUTION! Do not operate navigation or complex functions while driving. Pull over safely.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via touchscreen or physical buttons. Volume knob, Source button, Home button, Navigation shortcut.

Touchscreen Controls: Home screen with customizable widgets, App drawer, Settings menu, Audio controls, Navigation shortcut.

Audio Settings: 13-band equalizer, Crossover settings, Time alignment, Loudness, Subwoofer level. System Settings: Display brightness, Button illumination, Beep tones, Language, Units. Navigation Settings: Route preferences, Avoidances, Map display options.

Connecting Devices

Smartphones: USB connection for CarPlay/Android Auto. Bluetooth devices: Pair in settings. Cameras: RCA input for backup camera.

  1. Turn off vehicle and unit before connecting devices.
  2. Use genuine cables for smartphone connections.
  3. Pair Bluetooth devices through settings menu.
  4. Connect backup camera to designated RCA input.

Tip: Ensure firmware is updated for best compatibility with devices.

Navigation Features

Garmin navigation with lifetime map updates and traffic.

  1. Enter destination: Use address search or points of interest.
  2. Route guidance: Follow turn-by-turn directions with voice prompts.
  3. Traffic alerts: Real-time traffic updates with alternate routes.
  4. Lane assistance: Visual lane guidance for complex intersections.
  5. Speed limits: Display current road speed limits.
  6. Where Am I?: Emergency information and nearby services.

WARNING! Always pay attention to road conditions. Do not program navigation while driving.

Audio Settings

Advanced audio customization with 13-band EQ and time alignment.

Sound Profiles: Custom EQ settings, Preset sound modes (Rock, Pop, Jazz, etc.). Crossover Settings: High-pass/low-pass filters, Slope settings. Time Alignment: Speaker distance calibration for optimal staging. Subwoofer Control: Level, phase, and low-pass filter settings.

Care & Maintenance

Use microfiber cloth for screen cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals. Keep firmware updated.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol-based cleaners on screen. Keep unit dry and avoid extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 compliant. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © 2023 Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com/usa or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/connectionsCheck fuse, wiring harness, and battery connection.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing issuesDelete old pairing, restart phone, repair device.
Navigation not workingGPS antennaEnsure GPS antenna has clear view of sky; check connection.
No soundSettings/connectionsCheck mute, volume, speaker connections, and audio settings.
Screen not responsiveCalibration neededRestart unit; perform touchscreen calibration in settings.

Reset: Settings > System > Factory Reset if available.

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com/usa

Kenwood Excelon DNX691HD Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025